In an era where physical fitness is equated with cricketing brilliance — epitomised by the likes of Virat Kohli — a rather unconventional batter stole the limelight in the Caribbean Islands. West Indian batter Rahkeem Cornwall, at 140 kgs, defied all stereotypes and scripted a new chapter in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2023.
The stage was set during the 18th match of the CPL where Barbados Royals faced off against St Kitts Patriots. The Patriots had set a target of 220 runs, losing only 4 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Andre Fletcher scored a respectable 56 runs for the Patriots. However, it was Sherfane Rutherford, the team's captain, who stole the show with a quickfire 65 off 27 balls.
Will Smeed also put in a fine performance for the Patriots, chipping in with 63 runs from 36 balls and adding depth to the team's run count.
For the Royals, Rahkeem Cornwall opened the innings with Kyle Mayers and took the bowlers to the cleaners. It seemed like none of the St Kitts bowlers had read the script, as they were utterly ineffective against the batter.
Cornwall sped to his half-century in just 23 balls, boosted by 6 sixes and 2 fours. It was a clear sign of what was to come. Cornwall continued his rampage and notched his century in the next 22 balls, scoring 12 sixes and 4 fours. His strike rate? A mind-blowing 212.50.
Cornwall isn’t just a one-trick pony. He demonstrated his bowling skills by claiming 2 wickets, contributing to his team in more ways than one. In the end, Barbados Royals successfully chased down the target in just 18.1 overs. Captain Rovman Powell remained unbeaten on 49, and Kyle Mayers added 22 to the tally.
When Cornwall had to retire out, every cricket enthusiast in the stadium rose to their feet. His performance was not just a win for the Barbados Royals but a victory for cricketing history.
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